Semhal reviews three varying perspectives on disaster management preparedness at the government, business, and community levels. Narratives from individuals with backgrounds working at each level were used to illustrate how disaster preparedness is achieved through planning, communication, and collaboration.
Semhal quotes Thomas Chin, Carmela Hinderaker, and Peter Miller in discussing the importance of three levels of disaster response: first-level preparedness, disaster planning in the business sector, and individual preparedness. Semhal explains all three phases are crucial to effective disaster response. Individuals who have received emergency preparedness training have a shorter reaction time in the event of a disaster. First-level disaster responders (the government) supports front-line responders and keeps the public notified about arising disasters, while business owners create plans to maintain the stability of supply chains, which prevents shortages in times of crisis.